Home automation is alive and well across America. Interestingly, plenty of homeowners have smart devices in their homes even though they have not actively embraced the home automation concept. Be that as it may, there’s no need to fear home automation or allow yourself to be overwhelmed by it.
If you are intimidated by the many home automation ecosystems, relax. It is possible to get started with home automation and still avoid being overwhelmed. You just need to know how to do it. Here’s the best thing: it is not a secret. We just don’t hear a lot about it because the tech media has a habit of always focusing on the latest crazes in home automation.
Start With the Essentials
The best way to automate without the overwhelm is to begin with the essentials. You are basically looking at two things: temperature control and entry-level security. Both are fairly simple to tackle thanks to modern technology that is as easy to use as a smartphone.
The Smart Thermostat
The smart thermostat is essentially a programmable thermostat with advanced features consumers did not have access to several decades ago. Programming is easier than it was with first-generation models, thanks to touch screens that offer a familiar and logical interface. Programming is pretty straightforward.
What makes it smart? Capabilities above and beyond mere programming:
- Remote Access – A smart thermostat can be accessed remotely. With your phone, you can adjust the temperature and override programming even if you are not home.
- Learning Capabilities – When combined with other types of home automation sensors in your house, a modern smart thermostat can artificially learn your routine and automatically adjust programming.
You can get a basic smart thermostat at a decent price from your local DIY home improvement store. You can also buy one online. They are easy enough to find wherever you buy home improvement products.
Entry-Level Security
Another good starting point for home automation is security. An entry-level system includes a few intrusion sensors for windows and doors, a single video camera, and some sort of centralized hub. If you buy a pre-packaged unit, everything should function out of the box.
Vivint Home Security offers a nice entry-level system known as HomeProtect. You can get it with 24-hour monitoring or handle monitoring on your own. There is no required contract with HomeProtect either. Vivint will also professionally install the system for you.
Why begin your home automation journey with security? Because setting up a wireless camera and installing a few window and door sensors is pretty easy. Most systems come with a companion mobile app as well, making it fairly simple to get everything connected and programmed.
Start Small and Go From There
Automating your home without the overwhelm is about starting small and going from there. Starting with a smart thermostat or an entry-level security system will help you get your feet wet. Once you are comfortable with your first few devices, you can start thinking about branching out.
A good add-on for your first expansion is a smart speaker. Smart speakers can generally be used to control home automation devices with voice. Invest in some compatible light switches or plugs at the same time, and you can turn lights on and off by just speaking.
Attempting to install a full home automation system with all the bells and whistles, when you have no experience with home automation, can be overwhelming. But doing so isn’t necessary to get started building your own smart home. You can start small with a thermostat or a basic security system, then go from there.